The weather has been heating up and so, too, have the criminals.
With the good weather the North Okanagan has enjoyed over the past week, it not only brings out the people wanting to enjoy the beaches and parks, but it also brings out the opportunists to steal from vehicles.
Over the past week, the Vernon-North Okanagan RCMP detachment has received numerous calls of vehicles being broken into while the owners left their vehicle parked and went for a hike at the beach or in one of the parks.
Police recommend that people plan ahead for such an outing.
“If you know you are going to the beach, carry as little as possible with you,” said RCMP spokesperson Gord Molendyk.
“Do not leave valuable items visible like purses and wallets in the vehicle when you park it. If at all possible place your items in the trunk before you arrive at the park so you are not seen placing them in the trunk when you go to the beach or for your walk.”
Molendyk said to watch for individuals who appear to be hanging around watching the activity of a parking lot while you are there.
“The police want everyone to get out and enjoy the parks and beaches,” said Molendyk. “We are just asking you to take a few extra precautions and perhaps not become a victim of auto theft.”
